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3 things to look for at the Frankfurt motor show

The new Porsche 911 is sure to be a star at the Frankfurt motor show. Photo by Porsche

The Frankfurt motor show is shaping up to be an eclectic blend of raw power and glitz while offering more than a subtle hint of future mobility.

Here are three trends to watch for at Germany's festival of sheetmetal.

Supercars: Auto shows are defined by breathtaking cars with athleticism and power, and Frankfurt promises that in spades. The 2012 Porsche 911 is generating the most buzz, and the larger, sleeker and more powerful car should contend for an Autoweek Editors' Choice Award.

In that vein, the Ferrari 458 Italia spider cracks the top off one of the Prancing Horse's signature cars and packs 562 hp.

Also, Jaguar's C-X16 concept hints at an impressive future style for the British icon.

Utility: Maserati is expected to debut an SUV concept which would expand the brand's luxury expertise into a new sector.

Conversely, Land Rover is offering a rough-and-tumble concept, the DC100, that previews the next Defender.

Small cars: It's a European show, so naturally Frankfurt will feature the latest in Audi's urban concepts, the A2, and the Mercedes-Benz B-class.